When someone passes away, handling their estate often falls to a family member or close friend. Acting as an executor is a significant responsibility, and it's important to approach this role with care and attention. Knowing and avoiding these common pitfalls ensures...
Probate
What to expect when a loved one dies without a will
In some unfortunate cases, a loved one may pass away suddenly without having a will drafted. When this happens, it can be confusing to navigate the division of property and assets. If you find yourself in this situation, you need to understand the laws and processes...
Navigating probate for small estates
In Florida, if someone passes away with an estate valued at $75,000 or less (excluding their home), they may qualify for a simpler probate process known as summary administration. This process omits the appointment of an executor and aims to expedite asset...
How to deal with a misuse of executor powers
Dealing with a misuse of executor powers during probate can be a distressing situation. Executors, entrusted with carrying out the wishes of a dead person as outlined in that person's will, need to act with honesty. However, there are instances where executors may...
Making probate less stressful for your loved ones
According to the Florida Office of the State Courts Administrator, there were over 75,000 probate cases filed in 2021. Probate often seems daunting and stressful. However, with proper planning and understanding, you can make this process much smoother for your loved...
Guide to Florida probate: How you can make things easier going forward
The Florida Office of the State Courts Administrator reported 152,337 probate filings in 2020 and 2021. Navigating the Florida probate process can be a challenging and complex task. Probate is the legal process to manage the assets and liabilities of a deceased...
Commonly asked questions about the probate process
The Florida probate process is something that many people encounter at some point, especially after the death of a family member or close friend. The process can be complex, and understanding it might be challenging. If you are going through this process yourself or...
Will your estate be used to pay off debts?
You probably plan to leave your family an inheritance after your death. However, you might die before paying all your debts. This could complicate the efforts of your surviving family members to claim your property in probate. As Nerdwallet explains, in certain...
Can you avoid probate?
The estate planning process includes not only drafting your will but also establishing other important records, such as advanced directives and guardianship declarations. In the state of Florida, most estates pass through probate after the estate owner’s death. If you...
When may someone contest a will and who defends the estate?
Anyone who believes they may have an interest in the deceased's assets may contest a will in probate court. According to the Florida State Legislature, after the testator's death, an individual may dispute an entire will's contents or a portion of it. Wills must name...